Atlas shell on Kato (fat) SD40-2 shell

[craigolio1]

Hey all. Years ago I started a kitbash of a BC Hydro SD38-2. I used a Kato SD40-2 and an Atlas GP38-2. Well, as many of you probably DO know, and I just discovered, the Kato is a bit wide. The Wtlas shell won’t slide down over a bump in the middle of the mech where the motor is.

Can anyone tell me, before I ruin a frame, is it possible to narrow it slightly with out ruining it? Curious if anyone else has done this.

Thanks.

Craig.

[Spades]

The Atlas shell I assume is the rear fan section. I think you would have to use an Atlas GP35 long hood end (Just the tapered part) the sides of the 38-2 rear fan section (Is door spacing and size correct?) and cobble togeth the rear roof and fans.  I tried and failed to fit an Atlas GP38-2 walkway on a Kato GP38-2. 

[jagged ben]

Kinda hate to say it, but maybe switch to an IM SD40-2 mech.

[craigolio1]

Thanks guys. The shell is done. Detailed. Painted. Out of print decals. So fitting on a mech is the only direction I want to go. I was thinking of getting an IM SD as well.

Craig.

[jjb62556]

When I did my BC Hydro SD's I had to ground do the humps on the frame and inside the shell. I used a belt sander and went slow and check the fit often....

[peteski]

I looked at the Spookshow's page for this model (I don't own one of these).  Looks like it might be possible to mill/file the sides down a bit (as long as the frame is continuous metal under and over the motor.  Just thinking out loud . . .

[bman]

With my hobby stuff still packed away from last winters move is there a difference in widths of the mech between the Kato early SD40-2 and a mid production SD40-2? And with Scaletrains announcing a dash 2 this might be another option.

[craigolio1]

When I did my BC Hydro SD's I had to ground do the humps on the frame and inside the shell. I used a belt sander and went slow and check the fit often....

By the humps, do you mean the ones over the motor, or the bumps that hold the shell in place?  I'd love to see pics of your models.  Did you do the blue or yellow (both?)?

Craig

[craigolio1]

@bman and @peteski , I haven't compared the width of the mid-pro and the original but I think they are the same... I'll check though... good call.

 The scale trains will be more expensive than i was hoping for sure but if its a question of finishing or not finishing the models then they would obviously be in the running.

 It sounds like I may be able to narrow the mech and shell enough from what @jjb62556 has said.  That would be ideal as I have them already.

Craig